The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called on the incoming government, led by President-elect John Mahama, to take immediate and decisive action to meet the high expectations of Ghanaians.
Ghana’s Electoral Commission, on Monday, December 9, declared former President and main opposition leader John Dramani Mahama as the winner of the December 7 presidential election with 56.55% of the vote.
Addressing Parliament at its first sitting after the general elections, Mr. Bagbin emphasized the weight of responsibility placed on the new administration following the resounding victory of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“I need not remind anyone of the saying ‘to whom much is given, much is expected.’ Your promise to reset Ghana has been massively endorsed by the voters, and you cannot afford to disappoint them,” Mr. Bagbin stated. “I trust Parliament will be a reliable partner and the gatekeeper to ensure a just delivery of that promise.”
The Speaker commended Ghanaians for demonstrating democratic maturity through peaceful elections, describing Ghana’s democracy as “the ultimate winner.” He added, “We are definitely on the right course.”
Mr. Bagbin urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to focus on priority legislative matters, including: Budget approval for the first half of 2025, Third reading of the Environmental Protection Bill, Passage of the Ghana Boundary Commission Bill, 2023,Review of the Social Protection Bill, 2024, Progress on the Parliamentary Transition Bill and Parliamentary Service Bill, Consideration of key Public Accounts Committee reports.
Opposition to Closely Monitor Government Spending
The Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, affirmed that while in opposition, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will closely monitor the Mahama administration’s management of public finances.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin expressed skepticism about the NDC’s ability to address the issue of excessive government spending, despite Mr. Mahama’s promise to run a lean government. “I do not believe the NDC can effectively address the excessive use of state funds,” he said.
Prior to the elections, Mr. Mahama reiterated his pledge to drastically reduce the size of government, committing to work with no more than 60 ministers if re-elected.
Minority Leader calls for Integrity and Accountability
Meanwhile, Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson charged the incoming government to prioritize integrity, probity, and accountability. He emphasized that the NDC must set itself apart by focusing on the needs of Ghanaians over political interests.
“May we never become like the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government,” Dr. Forson declared. “We have to be different. We cannot be like this NPP government. May we be guided by the principles of integrity, probity, and accountability.”
He stressed that the incoming administration must correct the shortcomings of the outgoing government and deliver on promises that will benefit the ordinary Ghanaian.
Mahama: A Leadership First and a Nation in Transition
President-elect John Mahama’s victory marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first Ghanaian to win two non-consecutive presidential terms. His leadership comes at a pivotal time, rallying the nation under the theme “Resetting Ghana.”
Mr. Mahama faces the daunting task of translating his campaign promises into tangible outcomes. The road to national recovery will demand bold decisions, fiscal discipline, and unwavering commitment to restoring economic confidence and addressing the concerns of Ghanaians.
By Eugene Davis
